Hiking the Dragon’s Back Trail: Shek O to Big Wave Bay
Connecting two of the most laid-back coastal spots on Hong Kong Island is the Dragon’s Back Trail.
In my opinion, it’s one of the best easy hikes in Hong Kong, as it combines incredible views and simple access from the city. You’ll follow a rolling ridge that looks like the spine of a dragon, with sweeping views over green hills, remote islands, and the South China Sea.
And the best part? It finishes by the coast. After a few hours on the trail, you can cool off in the ocean, grab a drink, and soak up the quiet, surf-town vibe at Big Wave Bay.
Unlike the more rugged routes such as Kowloon Peak or Lantau Peak, this scenic ridgeline walk feels adventurous without being intimidating, making it one of the most rewarding trails for both first-time visitors and experienced hikers.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to hike the Dragon’s Back Trail from Shek O to Big Wave Bay. This includes transport, what to expect, tips, and whether it’s actually worth your time.
About Shek O & Big Wave Bay
Even if you aren’t planning to hike, both Shek O and Big Wave Bay are worth visiting in their own right for the authentic beachside vibes.
Shek O
Shek O is a colourful seaside village on the southeastern side of Hong Kong Island, known for its relaxed atmosphere, local cafes, and small beach. It feels worlds away from the skyscrapers of Central, with pastel houses, winding lanes, and a slower pace of life.
Most people start their Dragon’s Back hike here (or at least nearby) because it’s easy to reach by public transport, and it’s a great place to grab breakfast or coffee before setting off.
If you have time, it’s worth exploring the beach and village first to get a glimpse of everyday coastal life, which contrasts with the HK’s more polished districts.
Big Wave Bay
Big Wave Bay is the perfect place to end the hike. It’s a small, laid-back beach popular with surfers, weekend swimmers, and hikers finishing the trail. The vibe here is casual and unpretentious, with a few simple cafes, changing facilities, and enough space to relax without feeling crowded.
If the weather’s good, bring swimwear. Jumping into the ocean after the hike is one of the highlights, and it’s a big reason why this route is so popular. Even if you don’t swim, sitting on the sand with a cold drink while watching the waves roll in is a great way to end the day.
From Big Wave Bay, it’s easy to catch a bus back toward the city.
About Dragon’s Back Trail
Walk type: Point to point
Distance: 7-8km
Maximum Elevation: 284m (near Shek O Peak)
Minimum Elevation: 0m
Walk time: 2-3hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Nice ridgeline, beach at the end
Permit Required: No
Entrance Fee: Free
Dogs Permitted: Yes
Facilities: Toilets + food available at Big Wave Bay & Shek O. One bathroom on trail.
Dragon’s Back Hiking Route
There are a couple of options for the Dragon’s Back trail which links Shek O and Big Wave Beach.
You can either go north to south, or south to north. I personally recommend going south to north as it’s easier in that direction.
You also have a couple of optional detours:
If you don’t want to go all the way to Big Wave Bay, you can do this route. Or if you want an additional climb to make it harder, you can easily link the Dragon’s Back with an optional hike to Pottinger Peak.
How to get to the trailhead
The Dragon’s Back trailhead is located along Shek O Road, and getting there is straightforward using public transport.
From Central or Hong Kong Island, take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station (Island Line).
From here, head to the bus terminal (located by the exit) and catch bus #9 or #11 toward Shek O. The drive takes around 30 minutes, winding through hills and coastal viewpoints before reaching the trail area.
The driver should stop at the Dragon’s Back trailhead (bus stop: here) or watch for the signposted MacLehose Trail Stage 8 entrance. It’s clearly marked, and you’ll often see other hikers getting off here.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the MTR station (Uber works here). This is especially useful if you’re travelling early in the morning or want to save time.
Hiking the Dragon’s Back: What to expect
From the trailhead, the hike begins with a short but noticeable climb through partially shaded forest. It’s one of the steepest sections of the entire route, but the paved, stone steps make it easier.
It’s not long, but it’s enough to get your heart rate up and remind you that Hong Kong humidity is no joke. I’m an experienced hiker and even I was sweating!
The path is well-maintained and easy to follow, winding through dense greenery. Even though this section sits relatively close to the city, it feels surprisingly peaceful.
After around 15-20 minutes, the trees begin to thin, and the views open up behind you. You’ll see the coastline stretching toward Hong Kong Island, with small beaches and hidden bays appearing below in Tai Tam Bay.
Dragon’s Back Ridge
A short walk further and you’ll reach the ridge where the hike transforms completely. Here, the enclosed jungle gives way to more open rolling hills overlooking the sea.
This is the most iconic part of the hike. On one side, you have views of the South China Sea; and on the other, you have the green valleys and distant mountains of Shek O Country Park.
It also becomes apparent where the name “Dragon’s Back” comes from. The trail undulates along the spine of the ridge, rising and falling like the back of a dragon.
The path is wide and easy, making it perfect for beginners and casual hikers. There are plenty of spots to stop, take photos, and just soak in the scenery. This section can also be windy, which is a welcome break from the heat.
As you continue along the ridge, you’ll gradually approach the highest point near Shek O Peak (284m). The elevation gain is steady but gentle, and most people won’t even notice they’ve reached the summit as there isn’t an obvious sign or viewpoint here.
This is a good place to pause for a snack or water break before beginning the descent. The hardest work is now behind you.
Descending to Big Wave Bay
After the high point, the trail begins a gradual descent toward Big Wave Bay. The terrain changes again, with dirt paths transitioning into stone steps as you drop through greenery toward the coast.
The route to Big Wave Bay isn’t the most direct as you have to head inland first, before looping around. At Distance Post H089, you will turn left. Then at the following T-junction, you’ll turn right onto another, flatter woodland path (you should see another sign point to Tai Tam Gap). You will get an occasional glimpse out at where you came from.
Flatter section within Shek O Country park
Looking back at Tai Tam Bay
This section is easy on the legs compared to many Hong Kong hikes. Eventually you’ll reach a junction with Hong Kong Trail Section 8. There’s a bathroom here if you need.
Turn right and follow the bendy road for a short while. From the road you’ll have some great views over Chai Wan. You’ll also see the enormous Cape Collinson Chinese Permanent Cemetery.
Walk beyond the Pottinger Gap Picnic Area where the road ends, and then turn right into the vegetation again. There’s a sign pointing towards Big Wave Bay, and some steep steps down to the right.
From here, it’s pretty much downhill all the way to the sea! The steps can feel repetitive if your knees are sensitive.
Eventually, the trail exits near a small village and car park. You’ll see a few makeshift signs for the beach, often made out of old surfboards. Follow the signs (or Google Maps).
Reaching Big Wave Bay is the perfect reward after the hike. Many hikers finish by grabbing a cold drink or some food, swimming in the sea, or simply sitting on the sand watching surfers or fishermen.
If you have time, it’s worth chilling out at the beach for a while. The contrast between ridge hiking and ocean swimming is part of what makes Dragon’s Back such a memorable experience. Look out for signs as sometimes surfing isn’t allowed.
Tips for hiking Dragon’s Back
Dragon’s Back is an easy and well-marked hike, but a few simple tips will make the experience much smoother (and more enjoyable).
- Arrive early: Dragon’s Back is one of the most popular hikes in Hong Kong, and the first section can get busy later in the morning especially on weekends.
- Sunrise vs Sunset: Sunrise is calmer, cooler, and usually less busy. Sunset is more dramatic, with golden light over the coastline, but expect more people on the trail and at viewpoints. The soft light over the coastline and golden grass along the ridge make this one of the photogenic trails in the city.
- Take your time on the ridge: The best part of Dragon’s Back is the scenery, so don’t rush through it. There are plenty of spots to stop, take photos, or just enjoy the views.
- Check the weather: Clear days make a huge difference here. Fog, haze, or low cloud can block the coastal views completely. Strong winds can also turn a chill hike into something way more uncomfortable.
- Finish with a swim or food: One of the highlights is ending at Big Wave Bay. Many hikers bring swimwear or plan to grab food and drinks near the beach. One of the restaurants even has a selection of local beers!
- Know your exit point: There are a few options to get back from Big Wave Beach. I got the minibus back from here.
FAQs
Can you hike Dragon’s Back solo?
Yes, Dragon’s Back is one of the best hikes in Hong Kong to do solo. The trail is well-marked, easy to follow, and popular enough that you’ll usually see other hikers along the way, which adds an extra sense of safety.
As always, it’s still worth taking basic precautions. Let someone know your plans, carry enough water, and check the weather before you go. Even though the route is beginner-friendly, the exposed ridge means strong sun, wind, or sudden storms can make it feel more challenging than expected.
Best time to hike the Dragon’s Back Trail
The best time of year to hike Dragon’s Back is between October and March, when temperatures are cooler, humidity drops, and visibility is usually much better. This is peak hiking season in Hong Kong and makes the experience far more comfortable.
Summer is still possible, but the exposed trail can feel very hot. Therefore, hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the worst heat.
The best time of day to hike the Dragon’s Back trail is early or late in the day. Sunrise is quieter and more peaceful, while sunset is more popular thanks to the golden light over the ocean. Transport can be more sporadic outside of peak hours though.
Of course, keep an eye on the weather and avoid heavy rain, strong winds, or typhoon warnings.
Is the Dragon’s Back Trail difficult?
Dragon’s Back is an easy hike and one of the best in Hong Kong for beginners. The trail is well maintained, clearly marked, and there are no exposed or technical sections. There were a few retirees taking on the trail when we hiked in the morning.
The only real challenge is the climate. Hong Kong’s heat and humidity can make the first uphill section feel tougher than expected. But overall, the distance is short, the elevation gain is gradual, and there are plenty of spots to rest along the ridge.
Compared to tougher hikes like West Dog’s Teeth or Tai Mo Shan, this is far more relaxed. If you’re reasonably active and bring enough water, you should find it manageable.
What to pack for the Dragon’s Back Trail
Dragon’s Back is short and accessible, but a few basics will make your hike much more enjoyable.
- Water: 1-1.5 litres per person. Perhaps a bit more in summer.
- Light snacks: Especially if you plan to stop often.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes: Trainers or trail shoes with good grip
- Swimwear and towel: If you want to swim or surf at Big Wave Bay.
- Octopus card: For transport to and from the trail.
If you’re hiking at sunrise or sunset, bring a light layer and consider a headtorch. The trail is straightforward and can probably be done with just a phone torch, but being prepared means you can relax more.
Honest Review
I really enjoyed hiking the Dragon’s Back trail from Shek O to Big Wave Bay. It made a pleasant change from other more urban hikes in Hong Kong. Being on the far east side of Hong Kong Island, it feels more rural and village-y. It has views of nature rather than skyscrapers!
Despite this feel, the hike is super easy to access! Plus the pay-off for the stunning views are well worth the minimal effort you have to put in to get there.
I also found the hike made for the perfect day out by combining with the beaches. In the same way that Lamma Island is a great way to combine beaches and hiking, so is this, and you don’t even need a ferry!
Other hikes nearby
If you’re keen for more hikes in Hong Kong beyond Suicide Cliff and Kowloon Peak, try:
- Lion Rock Hike – Hong Kong’s most iconic summit
- Sharp Peak (Sai Kung) – tougher, longer, incredible
- Lantau Peak via West Dog’s Teeth – one of the toughest hikes in Hong Kong.
- Ma On Shan Ridge – similar ridgeline drama
- Lamma Island Trail – a relaxing walk to explore Lamma Island and its beaches.
- Tai Mo Shan – the highest peak in Hong Kong!
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Happy hiking!